To do basic repairs that's all you need... shoot I could dismantle your entire drivetrain with just a socket set

 

Here is a good set. Its their lowest end stuff and only comes with 1 year warranty but its only $50. This would probably cost the same at Harbor Frieght but this is much better.
Sears: Online department store featuring appliances, tools, fitness equipment and more

 

Harbor Freight is a pretty good place to start. I wouldn't get anything for heavy work but it's good for the smaller things. Screwdrivers, wrenches, wire brushes etc. simple tools at a cheaper price.

 

this is perfect

 

i have that same evolv set and let me tell you i think its better then craftsman tools. now dont get me wrong that is not my main set of tools but my girlfriend got a flat in nyc one time. when i got there there was no tire iron in the car go figure chics and there are no auto stores in nyc that i no of. i picked up that tool set cause it was the cheapest one in there tool section at kmart. im 6.1 290lb and i used it to break the lugs loose by standing on it. i was shocked that was 4 years ago i still have the set and its still going strong keep it in the trunk in case of emergency. hell i use it for most of the small jobs i do on my camaro. its right there in the trunk and easy to carry the only cons i have with that evolv set is the ratchet handle is comfy in the hand but theres no way to get a wrench or pipe on it for leverage and you should deff buy some long extensions with it cause it only comes with short ones

 

i like the 260 pc set from sears. can get them on sale sometimes for 160 bucks. tools are not just used on cars, i use mine on the boats, mowers, bikes, house, etc. consider what it costs to have a shop do the work then look at the cost of tools so you can do it yourself

 

every time I go to the mall I browse the tool section at Sears. I just picked up a set of picks the other day.

I've been adding to my tool collection for years (not as many years as Gorn though) and I don't think you ever stop

 

Crescent has a VERY nice kit I bought at Costco for ~$99. One with a case like this and handle is perfect for car work -- you can always find wrenches and sockets easily!

For other random tools inexpensively, you can't beat Harbor Freight -- pretty much everything goes on sale throughout the year -- watch for the ~$55 aluminum racing jack sale...

 

I have a 50 piece ratchet set from Craftsman that I got on sale for around 35 bucks. It has everything I needed for engine work like swapping the water pump, belt tensioner, and other repairs. It's surprising how much you can do with just a basic ratchet set and a couple of screwdrivers.

 

True ^^^ but if you do a lot of work trust me you want better tools. Some cars are more trouble and those expensive tools come in handy. I used the evolv before and you just can't beat its price. I don't like rubber handles but that's just me.